Sturgis’ Police Volunteers in Policing, known as V.I.P’s, have been trained as members of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

The three-day program prepared the team with basic skills to respond to a disaster.

Training included the evaluation of hazards at a disaster scene, evaluating patients and search-and-rescue techniques.

Each team member also was provided with a response backpack and equipment.

In initial stages of a major disaster, such as a tornado, initial response units may become overwhelmed until back-up arrives. The CERT Team is an available adjunct team to typical fire and police response in those types of situations.

V.I.P.’s perform a variety of voluntary community services throughout the year.

The C.E.R.T. program was hosted through the St. Joseph County Sheriff Department and was the second such class held this year.